As a modern attack submarine, HMAS Collins is outfitted with a bevy of systems and processing suites for the role. This includes a GEC-Marconi Type 1007 surface-search radar system and Thales bow and towed sonar arrays. ArgoPhoenix AR-740-US serves as the intercept array while a Raytheon CCS Mk 2 (AN-BYG-1) suite manages the combat system. Countermeasures make up a self-defense measure for the boat and crew. Navigation is by way of a Kelvin Hughes Type 1007 I-band radar system.
To the electronic systems is coupled the physical armament made up of 6 x 21" (530mm) torpedo tubes mounted in the bow. Usually outfitted with 22 x Mk 48 Mod 4/6/7 torpedo reloads, Collins can also fire the McDonnell Douglas UGM-84C Sub-Harpoon anti-ship, active radar homing missile as well as release up to 44 "Stonefish" Mark III naval mines as needed.
HMAS Collins' profile is conventional in the world of attack submarines. The hull is tubular and well-contoured for cutting through unforgiving seas. The bow is somewhat bulbous, housing a sonar system and the torpedo launchers. The sail is fitted at midships and contains the dive planes as well as optics, sensors and communications equipment required of clandestine submarine operations in remote regions of the world. The stern holds a rudder fin as well as the single shaft installation. Aided by computer design, the vessel is made as stealthy as possible, taking advantage of modern "noise-reducing" features. Indeed, when trialed with the help of the American Navy near Alaska, Collins was found to be nearly silent when running at "patrol speeds". Automation also supports a minimal crew and efficiency is aided through an all-digital combat system.
Commissioned in 1996, HMAS Collins made news when a "mixed" male/female crew was taken on in May of 1997. This then opened the door to women submariner training in 1998. In August of 2000, Collins made her first test-firing of the UGM-84C Sub-Harpoon anti-ship missile, further broadening her tactical value to the Australian Navy. She entered a period of refitting and repair beginning April of 2001. Suffering engine problems in July of 2009, Collins was again pulled for evaluation and subsequent repairing.
Since then, HMAS Collins has been involved in various training endeavors. As the situation in the Asia-Pacific region seems to head towards instability and a full-fledged arms race against China, HMAS Collins will be further promoted as a deterrent to all-out war.
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